Universal credit

Universal credit is a new benefit that replaces six existing benefits. It has not been introduced in Leicester yet – but we expect it to be introduced for certain groups of people sometime in 2014. By 2017 if you are of working age* and a jobseeker, or on low wages, you will claim universal credit.

Universal credit will replace:

Income based jobseeker’s allowance

Income related employment and support allowance

Income support

Working tax credit

Child tax credit

Housing benefit.

If you are already claiming benefits you don’t need to do anything – your benefits will continue as usual. You will be told when universal credit will affect you.

When universal credit is introduced it will be paid monthly – instead of weekly – directly into a bank, building society or Post Office account. If you get benefits to pay your rent you will be responsible for paying your landlord – money won’t be given directly to your landlord.